What is Prediabetes and How to Prevent It

A person has prediabetes if his sugar level is higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as Type 2 Diabetes. There are no clearly identifying signs or symptoms, but there are risk factors that one should be aware of. Both children and adult can have prediabetes.

But it’s good to know that that prediabetes does not necessarily lead to type 2 diabetes. It can even be prevented. With some lifestyle changes, one can be on the road to recovery. And what works for adults can work for children as well.

How Not to Have Pre-diabetes

Perhaps, it has become a habit to eat unhealthy foods most of the time. Or just sitting in front of the TV or computer the whole day rather than spend some time jogging or walking. With these scenario happening more often, added with the fact that diabetes runs in one’s family, and then there is the possibility of acquiring prediabetes.

When one has prediabetes, the sugar (or glucose) that normally fuels the cells to make muscles and other tissues just stays in the bloodstream. The pancreas may also not release enough insulin or the cells have become resistant to insulin. This would then result to a higher blood sugar level.

The Mayo Clinic identified risk factors that may cause pre-diabetes and diabetes type 2. These include:

Weight

Waist Size

Dietary patterns

Inactivity

Age

Family history

Race

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Sleep

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Change in lifestyle is one effective way to prevent having prediabetes. Include fruits and vegetables in one’s diet. There are fresh and affordable supplies at the supermarket. It would also help to be conscious of the amount of sweets to eat. Maybe go for sugar-free or just eat in moderation.

Being active is also important. Use the stairs instead of the elevator especially if one is only going two to three floors up. One can also allot half an hour to jog or do brisk walking in one of the many parks in Qatar. Some parks, such as in Corniche or Aspire Park, even have exercise machines for everyone’s use.

It is also best to go to the doctor for guidance on maintaining one’s health. Use the Hamad Health card to set an appointment with a specialist in the Hamad Hospital. Or if home on vacation, visit a doctor there for proper care.